Hibs' Mixu Furious After Steven Fletcher Sending-Off

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Hibernian boss Mixu Paatelainen has spoken out in anger after Steven Fletcher’s sending-off in yesterday’s Edinburgh derby.

The Hibees lost 2-0 to fierce rivals Hearts at Easter Road, although the game only turned when Fletcher was sent off with the score at 0-0.

With the advantage of an extra man, the Jambos scored through Christian Nade and substitute Gary Glen, to book a date with Falkirk in the Fifth Round of the Scottish Cup.

Paatelainen is furious at the red card received by Fletcher, telling referee Craig Thomson that at most, a yellow card would have been an acceptable punishment for his challenge on Christophe Berra.

"I'm disappointed that Fletcher got sent off for nothing and that changed the game,” former Cowdenbeath manager Paatelainen said to BBC Sport.

"If there is a challenge like that when strikers close down defenders, sometimes they go in a little bit late.

"My opinion doesn't count but it was never a sending-off."

"Fletcher did not catch Berra at all. However, Berra jumps like a brown trout and makes things worse. I don't think it was even worth a yellow," continued the Finn.

 "You can see if the striker goes for the ankle, the shin or over the ball and wants to harm the player.

"But there was nothing like that in that situation at all, you saw it clearly on television."

Paatelainen added, "If the official felt it was dangerous or too much power was used then maybe it was worth a yellow but definitely not a red.

"I am massively disappointed."

Hibs last won the Scottish Cup in 1902, so yesterday’s result means they extended their spell without the trophy to 107 years, much to the delight of the travelling support.

Chris Myson, Goal.com